Galatians 5:16-23 teaches that at any moment we are either walking by the Holy Spirit or according to the sin nature. Walking by the Spirit, enjoying fellowship with God, walking in the light are virtually synonymous. During these times, the Holy Spirit is working in us to illuminate our minds to the truth of Scripture and to challenge us to apply what we learn. But when we sin, we begin to live based on the sin nature. Our works do not count for eternity. The only way to recover is to confess (admit, acknowledge) our sin to God the Father and we are instantly forgiven, cleansed, and recover our spiritual walk (1 John 1:9). Please make sure you are walking by the Spirit before you begin your Bible study, so it will be spiritually profitable.

Begin this class with a few moments celebrating the Houston Astros winning the 2017 World Series and then hear about the 100th Anniversary of the Balfour Declaration, which was a policy statement concerning Israel’s right to a homeland. In this third chapter of 1 Peter be reminded that Jesus is the pattern for how to react when suffering unjustly. See eight different meanings for the word spirit and which one best fits this context. Realize that we will face opposition but we can be encouraged because Jesus Christ defeated it all on the Cross.